Announcing the news on their official website, Newcastle’s statement claimed Rondon was Benitez’s “number one transfer target” this summer.

“I am delighted to sign Salomon,” the Newcastle boss said.

“When we were looking for options up front, we knew how important experience would be. Salomon has been in the Premier League for a while and he knows how demanding it is.”

Rondon said in the club statement: “It’s an honour to be here and I’m excited to get started with my team-mates.

“The clubs were talking for a long time and now I’m focused on the season to help my team mates to get the points to do well this season.

“It’s one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League and I knew about the interest of the gaffer, so I’m happy to be here.”

Rondon is reportedly joining a squad in dispute with club bosses over bonus payments

According to reports, Newcastle players are refusing to do any media activities, declining to appear for ‘walk-up shots’ – shown when starting line-ups are announced on TV before matches – for broadcast rights holders on Monday.

Press Association Sport have contacted Newcastle for comment.

Gayle struck 23 goals in 32 games to help Newcastle gain promotion from the Sky Bet Championship in 2016-17 but struggled for such form once back in the Premier League.

The former Crystal Palace forward scored one less league goal than Rondon – and will now look to help Darren Moore’s West Brom back into the Premier League at the first time of asking after they lost their opener to Bolton on Saturday.

“The manager attracted me,” Gayle told West Brom’s official website.

“He’s really enthusiastic about my game and I’m buzzing to come down and I can’t wait to get started.”